By George Bukenya
As Pool players and clubs prepare for the new calendar year, Nile Breweries Limited has injected in the sport again a tune of over UGX 1(one) billion. In this new partnership, participating clubs will also pocket each UGX 3 million as facilitation to bolster their operations.
According to Douglas Karema the Trade Marketing Executive of the company, the sponsorship will last for a period of two years and the total amount of funds injected in the sport will equally be spread were each UGX 523 million will be released for both National Open qualifiers the National League for men and women.
This therefore implies that Nile Special will hold exclusive beer branding rights at all the Pool Association Uganda events for the next two years.
“As Nile Breweries, we are excited to continue our long- standing partnership with Pool Association of Uganda,” Karema said.
He further said, ” Nile Special recognizes the huge potential of Uganda Pool sport and the exceptional talent of its players. This partnership indicates our commitment of enhancing the sport to greater heights. We are optimistic that such investment will not only improve the National Open and National League but will as well empower both the players and club. “
Bob Trubish PAU Chairman said that the renewed partnership with Nile Special is a landmark achievement for the Pool sport in the country.
“The financial support, along with the innovative initiative like club facilitation and livestreaming, will create a more vibrant and competitive environment for our players. We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Nile Special and showcase the best of Ugandan pool to the nation, the continent and the world.’’ Bod said.
Ambrose Tashobya the National Council of Sports (NCS) Board chairman hailed the Pool Association Uganda for developing the sport and asked its leadership to lure private investors to invest in infrastructures. He says that that this will help to get many and better facilities.
He said that he is opposed to idea of sports federations of owning facilities because world their role is to regulate and work for the technical development of their respective sports disciplines.
“Federations must be charged with the duty of growing their respective games and also help nurture talents as well as ensuring that young players get a chance of studying.” Tashobya urged.
Tashobya also said that government has earmarked in this financial year to refurbish Lugogo indoor Arena and after its refurbishment, it will accommodate a total of 2000 spectators and will have greater economic and sports impact.
Donald Muhumuza the National League manager said that the first round of the men’s league activities will commence on 11th July and end on 29th September 2024 while round II is planned to start on 21st November 2024 and end on 19th January 2025.
The women’s league round one will start on 2nd August and end on 29th September and their second round will kick off on 24th November 2024 and climax on 18th January,2025.
According to Muhumuza , the National League format will be revamped to include 16 men’s and 8 women’s teams. The federation will also honor outstanding players, including the league’s top scorers and Most Valuable Players (MVPs).